The final stretch of the MLS regular season was a whirlwind of emotions for Charlotte FC. A slow-starting team found its rhythm just in time to secure a top-seven playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. A 2-0 victory over CF Montréal saw the team punch its ticket into the first round of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup playoffs. This victory wasn't only about victory over the opponent but about beating all the doubts surrounding their performances throughout the season.
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Confident from the Start
The first half was practically all about Charlotte FC. The team managed to keep the rhythm of the game, and right from the beginning of the match, players like Karol Swiderski, Pep Biel, and Liel Abada had quite a great influence on the game. The Crown did manage to set the tone, kept possession, and left Montréal disorganized without any visible opportunity to create something really dangerous.
Excellent shape, Karol Swiderski once again made it clear why he is one of the mainstays of the team. At the same time taking advantage of the mistake of Montréal goalkeeper Jonathan Sirois, Swiderski did not miss his chance and scored the first goal with a real striker's goal. That kind of opportunistic and decisive play only underlined the importance of a forward who knows how to take advantage of openings, even when the game seems balanced.
The team confidence was palpable at halftime, as Charlotte FC was in command of this match. There was much of the game yet to play, but this side seemed to know they were on their way. That early lead gave the team the composure it needed to keep the pressure on and not allow their opponent to gain momentum.
Montréal's Second-Half Pressure
While Charlotte FC had dominated the first half, CF Montréal was being more aggressive in the second half. The Canadian team resumed play from the break more energetic and in possession of the ball. However, as much as the intensity went up, the attack of Montréal was always rendered void by the concrete defense of Charlotte. Its block was strong with no allowance for dangerous shots on goal.
The substitution of Josef Martínez on appeared to be for the sake of a shake-up. Indeed, Montréal's play was better when he was on the pitch, yet it still wasn't good enough to pose any real threat. Quite frankly, with all the possession Montréal had, they were unable to use that to good scoring chances. Charlotte goalkeeper Kristian Kahlina was never in for a busy night, being forced to make only one critical save all game.
Without replicating that same level of possession dominance in the second half, Charlotte did a good job of managing the game. For the most part, when the pressure came, the defense stood firm, and whenever possible, the team tried to break out quickly on the counter, taking advantage of open gaps left available as Montréal pushed forward.
Victory Seals Playoff Spot
The turning point in the game came in stoppage time, wherein the last nail in the coffin was provided by second-half substitute Patrick Agyemang. It was a well-worked move that started from a perfectly timed tackle by Iuri Tavares in Charlotte's defensive half. Thereafter, Brandt Bronico had the vision to play the ball into space for Agyemang to finish.
And so, in a 1-on-1 with Montréal's Joel Waterman, Agyemang did what great players do at the most pivotal of times: he kept calm, cut onto his left foot, and coolly slotted through the keeper to win the game. That not only sealed the three points but also confirmed Charlotte FC's place in the MLS playoffs.
Looking Ahead to Decision Day
Now, Charlotte FC are in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, with only one game remaining in the regular season. It might be a secured playoff spot, but there is still plenty on stake on Decision Day. The matchup against DC United will go a long way in determining the Crown's final standing that will impact who they get as a first-round opponent in the playoffs.
With NYCFC and New York Red Bulls not far behind in the standings, every point will be critical to gain an advantage into the next stage. NYCFC still has a game in hand, adding another layer of intrigue in this tight fight. Irrespective of that, however, one thing is for sure: Charlotte FC fans have a reason to celebrate; their team is headed into the playoffs.